A CRIME prevention panel in Clacton has disbanded.

The Clacton Area Crime Prevention Panel met for the last time earlier this month.

Gill Elkins, vice-chairman of the group said there was a “lack of direction” for the group following reorganisations and alterations to police priorities over the past few years.

“We all regret having to make this decision after all these years but feel we have made a small contribution to helping prevent crime within the area and our assorted projects have contributed to this,” said Mrs Elkin.

“All our leaflets and items we have given out will still be available from the Clacton branch of Neighbourhood Watch.

“We have decided also that the cups and shields that we hold would remain with the last winners of these.”